The Brisbane Cricket Ground, or Gabba as it’s popularly referred to (its name derives from Woolloongabba where it sits), is an essential destination for sports-minded residents in Queensland. Home of both national and international cricket matches as well as Australian Rules football games, it makes an exciting destination to visit.
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The Gabba
The Gabba, located in Woolloongabba in Brisbane, is an iconic sports stadium that plays host to cricket team Queensland Bulls and AFL team Brisbane Lions as well as T20 side Brisbane Heat. This stadium has played an essential part in Australian sporting history as one of its iconic venues – becoming even more so for use during the 2032 Summer Olympic Games!
The stadium has hosted numerous major events throughout its history, such as Ashes Test matches and AFL Grand Finals. Additionally, AC/DC, Coldplay, and Taylor Swift have performed concerts there.
The Gabba is easily accessible by public transport, with numerous bus and train services stopping nearby the stadium. When attending events at The Gabba, be sure to read up on any restrictions or parking requirements for attendance as they may apply; alternatively there are numerous taxi ranks nearby offering convenient transport solutions.
Restaurants
No matter if you’re local or just visiting Brisbane’s east end, Woolloongabba precinct where The Gabba is situated offers plenty of great spots to grab a bite or post-game beer – from modern cafes to traditional eateries!
Eagle’s Nest, a 12-storey rooftop bar offering beautiful views out over Fortitude Valley and Brisbane’s northern area. Eagle’s Nest has become one of Brisbane’s go-to spots for enjoying stunning sunsets with chilled out vibes during weekends.
Morrison Hotel offers casual fare like steaks and classic pub grub, while Canvas Cocktail & Wine Bar just across the road offers chic venues with mural-covered walls and antique, custom furniture that are must-visits for fans and non-fans alike.
The Stairs
Experienced spectators know the Gabba is full of surprises – be it watching a Test match or concert here – as every piece of its infrastructure reveals something unique about its environment. From its modest veranda, world-famous cricketers would emerge into the outfield via a small gate behind the sightscreen via an entrance behind it via which they would traverse an encircling greyhound track and negotiate concrete steps wearing spiked boots before entering into battle on their respective pitches.
Australia has made effective use of their Ashes victory under Captain Bradman since 1936 – winning 37 out of 59 Test matches here since.
This unassuming modern cauldron may not excite romantics as much as Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide’s historic grounds, but it strikes fear into visiting teams. Bound by Vulture Street fortress-like boundaries.
Bars
If the intensity of the crowds and excitement of a game begins to overwhelm you, there are numerous bars nearby The Gabba that offer sanctuary from it all.
Nothing says cricket like pork knuckles, German beer and an accordionist playing his tunes! Just across the street from The Gabba is The German Club; an institution well worth visiting even when no game is taking place.
For an elevated pre and post game drinks experience, visit South City Wine Bar in Woolloongabba. Known for their extensive wine list and delectable European bites, South City Wine Bar provides the ideal place for pre and post game cocktails.